It’s the Simple Things. Really.

As leaders, it’s very easy to get caught up in our hectic day-to-day activities. Whether it’s a pressing budget deadline, a project that’s behind schedule, or a new initiative you’re implementing for your group, it sometimes seems like the work keeps coming even when we feel we’re completely tapped out. If you’ve ever felt this frustration, raise your hand. Now, everyone put your hands down. Truth is, we’ve all felt it.

How do we sustain our relationships with our people while getting the work done? Well, it’s the simple things. Really.

What are simple things you may ask? A quick check-in water cooler conversation. An email for a job well done. An occasional drink after work with the gang. A pat on the back. Listening when your people bring you their personal problems. Taking care of details that may not matter to you, but matter to your people. Taking the team to lunch regularly.

Simple things are those little actions and activities that remind us we’re all humans, and all humans like to be appreciated. They don’t take long; they don’t cost any money; and they help us maintain healthy relationships with others.

Today, do something simple.